So, till now I have learned that the translations of Dao are various, but why most translators use the meaning of 'the way' listed to translate the key concept “道‘’? Or simply 'the reason' Does the translation of 道 in the last video mean the implicature?
And how to understand the first and the second listed? (the metaphysical and transcendental being, from which all beings are generated; such laws as the law of the transformation of the opposites, or of circulating movement)
Besides, I want to the accuracy of my views. I think Daoist not only focus on the internal world about individuals but on the universe ,the heaven and earth. It is very subtle. The distinction of Daoist compared with others is the purpose that everyone should have the inner peace and develop himself . Only if oneself dose well, the society will become better and better. Though the purpose is different, the final result is the same--- to service the ruling class.
There are so many versions of Dao, and different version covers with different picture, so why there are so many different covers? And why could the foreigner mixed Daoism and Buddhism together?
In Paul Carus' version“The Reason that can be reasoned is not the eternal reason.” He translated “道” into "the reason", but I think it's hard to understand what does "道" means, and literally translated it into “reason” maybe not appropriate. Different people have their different understandings of "道",such as "way""law""truth" etc. So it's hard to unify people's understanding of "道".Why not translate it directly into Tao? And let readers understand the meaning of Tao through the context and their experience.
Basically, I think there is something mysterious about Chinses language. Just as "Dao" is unspeakable and unclear, we can still find some concrete words in English to descripe it. As I recalled in linguistics, Chinses language is always based on "high context". That is to say, many words and concepts are comprehended through our spirits. This lesson has introduced some Chinese classics through English because English is a "low context" language. In all, it's definately a good way to learn traditional culture.
The difference between Confucianism and Daoism lies in the fact that Confucianism strives to make peace with the external world, while Daoism attempts to educate one to make peace with its inner world, both his phisical and mental state of being.
There are there points to be noticed in such a description of Dao.
1. It is sth unclear obscure and we don't even know its name.
2.The unnamable Dao engenders heaven and earth, and then the myriad things.
3. It is still and solitary.
The originator of all things works permanately without claiming any credit for its own work. It is the most powerful, yet the most tranquil.